In warm weather, you may dream of the days spent on the sun lounger, cocktail in hand, but, what about your canine companion; how will they keep cool? Cue the ultimate dog cooling product: a doggy paddling pool.
Most of our furry friends cannot cope with the heat as well as us humans - this is because they do not have sweat glands like we do; instead, they sweat through their paws, which means they can overheat if they cannot find a way to keep cool, which is why a dog paddling pool can be a great help, particularly if it's under a sun shade.
The best dog paddling pools:
Like a children’s pool, a doggy paddling pool is a great and fun way to cool your dog down. Unlike traditional paddling pools, it is not inflatable, so your pup’s claws will not pop a hole into your pool. Most doggy pools are designed to fold out, which means they are a quick and easy way to have your beloved pet cool in minutes.
Here are some of the best paddling pools for dogs that are currently on the market.
Best dog paddling pools:
Best large dog paddling pool
AmazonWe love this paddling pool because of its large size. It is the perfect pool for a big dog like an excitable Vizsla or two smaller dogs like a couple of yappy chihuahuas. This pool holds a vast amount of water and is strong enough to hold multiple small to medium-sized animals.
Users have commented on how big the pool is, with one saying "Great for cooling down an active puppy, easy to use and safe also, deceptively spacious and great value". However, whilst it is very sturdy when it's set up, it is recommended that you trim your pet's claws before they use the pool to prevent the base from getting punctured.
Pros
- Portable (due to the folding design)
- Multiple layers of PVC, PP and polyester for reinforcement and sturdiness
Cons
- Some owners have experienced punctures at the base of the pool from their dog's claws
Best easy to empty dog paddling pool
AmazonWe love this dog paddling pool because it is easy to empty. It has a spiral drain design that you rotate and open to let the water out. But no need to worry—the drain cover is well sealed, so there are no little leaks when your doggy is enjoying the pool.
Customers like that it's available in multiple sizes, allowing them to find the best option for their dog and the space they have to work with.
Pros
- Multipurpose - can be used as a sandpit, paddling pool or as storage
- Available in multiple size options
Cons
- Some users say it is tricky to patch up holes with the repair kit
Best foldable dog paddling pool
Image: AmazonWe love this pool because it uses robust materials that are safe for the environment and shouldn't harm animals. It's easy to fold away when not being used and it is sturdy enough that it won't tear when your dog is jumping in and out on a summer's day.
It is "very easy to empty with the drain plug on the side", says one customer and another says that it's "easy to fill with a hosepipe".
Pros
- Fast to fill if you're using a hosepipe
- Has a drain, allowing you to empty the water away without picking it up
Cons
- Some say that there's began to leak over time
Best small dog paddling pool
image: robertdyas.co.ukwww.robertdyas.co.uk
Made using PVC & Composite Board, the PawHut Medium Pet Pool has a cute blue design with pawprints all over. It is designed for dual use and can be used indoors or outdoors and is perfect for a small or medium-sized dog.
Pros
- Can be folded compactly and put away for storage
- 3cm drainage hole for emptying the pool
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs who are over 35kg
Best budget dog paddling pool
The Rangewww.therange.co.uk
This is our favourite budget buy. At a bargain price of £7.99, this pool will keep your dog happy and cool. We like that it's a rigid paddling pool for dogs as it has reinforced walls that stay upright to prevent water from escaping.
Pros
- No inflation is required
- Lightweight and quick to set up
Cons
- Only available in one size
Are paddling pools good for dogs?
Yes, dog pools are great for cooling down your pooch, whilst encouraging some gentle exercise. Aside from using the pool to get away from the heat, it will also be a chance for them to splash around and play.
Whenever your dog gets into the pool, they will shed fur, build-up, dirt and germs into the water, so they should have their own pool and shouldn't join you in the family paddling pool.
If you're looking for other ways to stop your dog from overheating, a cooling bed can do the trick.
Hannah Carroll is a Senior Home, Parenting and Lifestyle Product writer for Yours, specialising in product testing and reviews. As a mother of three, Hannah loves finding clothes that makes her feel fabulous and products that are great for large families.